Storage stable calcium-supplemented beverage concentrates

ABSTRACT

This application relates to storage stable beverage concentrates for preparing beverages and food compositions which are nutritionally supplemented with significant levels of calcium and to a method for preparing these concentrates. The beverage concentrates have a greater than 5 fold concentration and comprise: 
     (a) from about 0.2% to about 1.20%, by weight, solubilized calcium; 
     (b) from about 0.7% to about 8.25%, by weight, of an acid component comprising a mixture of citric acid and malic acid wherein said mixture has a weight ratio of citric acid to malic acid of from about 5:95 to about 50:50; 
     (c) from about 0.05% to about 1.2%, by weight, of an acidic anion component selected from the group consisting of chloride ion, nitrate ion, sulfate ion and mixtures thereof; 
     (d) an effective amount of a flavor component; and 
     (e) from about 35% to about 80% sugar by weight on a dry basis; 
     (f) from about 20% to about 65%, by weight, water; wherein the weight ratio of said acid component to said solubilized calcium is from about 3.5 to about 6.5 and said beverage concentrate has a pH of less than or equal to about 4.5, preferably less than or equal to about 3.5. These beverage concentrates are stable at temperatures of greater than 90° F. (32° C.) for at least about 30 days. An added benefit is their stability for at least about 120 days at temperatures of from about 70° F. (21° C.) to about 90° F. (32° C.).

This is a continuation of application Ser. No. 07/814,030, filed on Dec. 26, 1991 now abandoned.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This application relates to storage stable beverage concentrates for preparing beverages and food compositions which are nutritionally supplemented with significant levels of calcium. This application particularly relates to beverage concentrates, of greater than 5-fold, which provide for excellent stability at high temperatures. This application further relates to a method for preparing these concentrates.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Dietary calcium inadequacy may be a contributing cause to osteoporosis for some populations. For example, a positive correlation between calcium intake and bone mass has been found across many age groups. It has been suggested that the level of calcium intake early in life directly influences the peak bone mass achieved at skeletal maturity.

Calcium can be obtained from a variety of dietary sources. The primary sources of calcium are dairy products, in particular milk. However, beginning in young adulthood and continuing through later life, milk is typically not consumed in sufficient quantities by the general population to obtain needed levels of calcium. This may be caused by lactose intolerance as well as by the unattractiveness of milk as a drink for "social occasions."

To achieve a greater consumption of calcium throughout life, more appealing alternatives to milk are needed. Such beverages must be consumed in sufficient quantities to provide nutritionally beneficial amounts of calcium. Therefore, non-dairy product beverages which comprise a milk level of calcium, 0.12% by weight, are in demand. To this end, soft drinks and fruit juice products have been devised which are fortified with calcium.

In order to save on shipping and packaging costs, concentrated beverages are preferred. These beverages are diluted at the time of consumption. Greater than 5-fold concentrates are highly preferred for economic reasons. However, as these beverages become more concentrated, the water level decreases therefore making it more difficult to solubilize calcium and sugar.

British Patent 2,207,335, Buisson et al., published Feb. 1, 1989, discloses three-fold to five-fold beverage concentrates comprising solubilized calcium; an edible acid component comprising citric, malic, fumaric, adipic, gluconic, tartaric and lactic acids; chloride and a flavor component containing no more than 20% fruit juice on a single strength basis.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,722,847, Heckert, issued Feb. 2, 1988, discloses three-fold to five-fold calcium supplemented fruit juice concentrates which are substantially free of added protein. The concentrates comprise solubilized calcium, an acid component comprising a mixture of citric and malic acid in specific ratios, at least 45% fruit juice, a sugar content of about 6° to 75° Brix and no more than about 0.7% chloride ion.

In developing alternatives comprising a milk level of calcium, several concerns have arisen, the first of which is stability. Due to the level of calcium salts in the beverage concentrates necessary to achieve a milk level of calcium, the precipitation of insoluble calcium salts, particularly at high temperatures, is a problem. Stability at high temperatures, greater than 90° F. (32° C.), is particularly important for storage in unair-conditioned warehouses, particularly in tropical environs, and for storage near heat sources such as those found in commercial kitchens.

Another concern is developing a calcium supplemented beverage which has desirable taste and mouthfeel qualities. The inclusion of high levels of calcium imparts significant "chalky" and/or "biting/burning" mouthfeel sensations. In addition, the inclusion of chloride ion imparts a bitter note to the flavor. In addition to providing consumer acceptable taste, the beverage needs to be visually appealing to the consumer. The inclusion of significant levels of calcium often produces a cloudy, opaque beverage. All of these concerns are further complicated by the low level of solubilizing water in greater than 5-fold beverage concentrates.

It is an object of the present invention to provide greater than 5-fold (5 X) beverage concentrates which are nutritionally supplemented with calcium, are stable at high temperatures and have a consumer acceptable taste and mouthfeel as well as a soluble system, i.e., free from calcium or sugar solids.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to beverage concentrates, of greater than 5-fold and typically up to about 10-fold, for preparing beverages which are nutritionally supplemented with significant levels of calcium. The beverage concentrates comprise:

(a) from about 0.2% to about 1.20%, by weight, solubilized calcium;

(b) from about 0.7% to about 8.25%, by weight, of an acid component comprising a mixture of citric acid and malic acid wherein said mixture has a weight ratio of citric acid to malic acid of from about 5:95 to about 50:50;

(c) from about 0.05% to about 1.2%, by weight, of an acidic anion component selected from the group consisting of chloride ion, nitrate ion, sulfate ion and mixtures thereof;

(d) an effective amount of a flavor component; and

(e) from about 35% to about 80% sugar by weight on a dry basis;

(f) from about 20% to about 65%, by weight, water; wherein the weight ratio of said acid component to said solubilized calcium is from about 3.5 to about 6.5 and said beverage concentrate has a pH of less than or equal to about 4.5, preferably less than or equal to about 3.5. These beverage concentrates are stable at temperatures of greater than 90° F. (32° C.) for at least about 30 days. An added benefit is their stability for at least about 120 days at temperatures of from about 70° F. (21° C.) to about 90° F. (32° C.).

The present invention further relates to greater than 5-fold fruit and botanical juice concentrates for preparing beverages which are nutritionally supplemented with significant levels of calcium. The flavor component for fruit and botanical juice concentrates ranges from about 1% to about 70%, by weight, of a single strength juice selected from the group consisting of fruit juices, botanical juices and mixtures thereof. In the place of single strength juices, fruit juice concentrates can be used in the range of from about 0.5% to about 25%, by weight, of the beverage concentrates.

The beverage concentrates of the present invention supply significant levels of nutritionally beneficial calcium. In addition, they possess significant stability from calcium salt precipitation at high temperatures while providing a consumer acceptable taste and mouthfeel. The most preferred beverage concentrates of the present invention provide for stability from calcium salt precipitation at 120° F. (49° C.) for at least seven days, consumer acceptable taste and mouthfeel, and a soluble system, i.e., free from calcium or sugar solids.

The most preferred beverage concentrates of the present invention are greater than about 5.5 fold and comprise:

(a) from about 0.5% to about 0.75%, by weight, solubilized calcium;

(b) from about 3.0% to about 4.0%, by weight, of an acid component comprising a mixture of citric acid and malic acid wherein said mixture has a weight ratio of citric acid to malic acid of about 26:74;

(c) from about 0.15% to about 0.3%, by weight, chloride ion;

(d) an effective amount of a flavor component;

(e) from about 45% to about 70%, sugar, by weight (dry weight basis), selected from the group consisting of high fructose corn syrup, wherein the solids are at least about 50% fructose; liquid fructose; and mixtures thereof;

(f) from about 30% to about 55%, by weight, water; wherein the weight ratio of said acid component to said solubilized calcium is from about 4 to about 6 and said beverage concentrate has a pH of less than or equal to about 3.5

The present invention further relates to a method for preparing these greater than five-fold calcium-supplemented beverage concentrates.

All ratios, proportions and percentages herein are by weight, unless otherwise specified.

Definitions

"Beverage concentrate", as used herein, refers to a beverage product which, when diluted with the appropriate amount of water, forms drinkable beverages. Beverage concentrates within the scope of the present invention are typically formulated to provide drinkable beverages when diluted with 3 to 9 parts by weight water or 4 to 9 parts by volume water.

"Five-fold" or "5 X", as used herein, is defined as a concentrate wherein one part is diluted with four parts of water by volume to achieve a single strength beverage. This requires calculation based on specific gravity to convert to by weight dilution. Similarly, "ten-fold" or "10X", as used herein, is defined as a concentrate wherein one part concentrate is diluted with nine parts of water by volume to achieve a single strength beverage.

"Water", as used herein, includes water from flavors, juice concentrates, sugar syrups and other sources, e.g., gum solutions. Water of hydration of calcium and other solids must be included.

"Solids", as used herein, are primarily the dissolved sugars, salts and flavor materials. Gums would also be included. Typically, solids are measured by the refractive index and are called °Brix. Brix approximates the sugar content of the concentrate.

"Sugars", as used herein, means a carbohydrate sweetener. Preferably these are mono and disaccharides. The sugar includes both liquid syrups and crystalline or solid sugars. Sugars are expressed on a dry weight basis, that is, a fructose syrup having 77% solids of which 55% may be fructose, (it may have a minor amount of glucose) and 23% water. One hundred grams of this syrup would provide seventy seven grams of solids and twenty three grams of water.

"Comprising", as used herein, means various components can be conjointly employed in the beverage concentrates and food compositions of the present invention. Accordingly, the terms "consisting essentially of" and "consisting of" are embodied in the term comprising.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Calcium

The key nutritional component of the beverage concentrates of the present invention is calcium. Suitable sources of calcium include calcium carbonate, calcium oxide, calcium hydroxide, calcium sulfate, calcium chloride, calcium phosphate, calcium hydrogen phosphate and calcium dihydrogen phosphate, as well as the respective organic salts of calcium, e.g., calcium citrate, calcium malate, calcium tartrate or calcium lactate. Mixtures of calcium carbonate and calcium hydroxide, which optionally and preferably include calcium chloride, calcium sulfate and calcium nitrate, are particularly preferred calcium sources. Most preferred are calcium carbonate and calcium hydroxide since these salts are neutralized by the organic acid, hence forming water and carbon dioxide, in the case of the carbonate. These neutralization products do not affect the flavor or the acidity of the beverage. To be useful in the present invention, the calcium needs to be "solubilized", i.e., dissolved or suspended, in the beverage or beverage concentrate. Accordingly, the amount of calcium included in the beverage concentrates of the present invention will be referred to in terms of "solubilized calcium", i.e., the amount of calcium ion dissolved or suspended.

For the beverage concentrates of the present invention, solubilized calcium is preferably sourced from calcium carbonate, calcium hydroxide, calcium chloride, calcium sulfate, calcium nitrate and mixtures thereof.

For single strength or the drinkable beverages made from the concentrates of the present invention, calcium is present in an amount of at least 0.04% by weight. This minimum level of calcium (about 1/3 to a half of milk level) provides significant nutritional supplementation from the beverage. Preferably the maximum level of calcium on a single strength basis is up to 0.26% by weight for fruit and botanical juice beverages and typically up to about 0.15% for other beverages. As the level of calcium in single strength fruit juice beverages is increased much beyond 0.26% by weight (beyond 0.15% by weight for other beverages) satisfactory taste and stability properties become much more difficult to achieve. Preferably, the level of calcium in fruit and botanical juice beverages is from about 0.10% to 0.20% by weight which includes milk level, i.e., 0.12% by weight, and from about 0.055% to about 0.09% by weight for other single strength beverages.

The beverage concentrates of the present invention comprise from about 0.2% to about 1.20% solubilized calcium. Preferably the beverage concentrates comprise from about 0.4% to about 1.0% more preferably from about 0.5% to about 0.75%, solubilized calcium.

Acid Component

A key component for beverage concentrates of the present invention from the standpoint of stability against precipitation of insoluble calcium salts, taste and mouthfeel quality and desirable onset of sourness is the edible acid component available from added acids, single strength juices or concentrate juices. This acid component comprises a mixture of citric acid and malic acid. The mixture of citric acid and malic acid of the present invention has a weight ratio of citric acid to malic acid of from about 5:95 to about 50:50. The preferred weight ratio for citric acid to malic acid is from about 20:80 to about 26:74. The most preferred weight ratio for citric acid to malic acid is about 26:74. These acids can be present as acids or else as their respective anionic salts, i.e., citrate and malate.

It is important to this invention that the calcium be completely neutralized by the citric and malic acids and that the acid be in excess. Each mole of calcium has a plus 2 charge. Each citric acid has 3 carboxyl groups that are neutralized by the calcium and each malic acid has 2 carboxyl groups. Thus each mole of calcium ion neutralizes one malic acid or two-thirds of a mole of citric acid. The product herein must have an excess of citric and malic acids. Preferably, there is 50% more citrate and malate anions than calcium. In general, it has been found that a weight ratio of acids to calcium of from about 3.5 to about 6.5, preferably from about 4 to about 6, accomplishes this result.

Another way to express this numerically is by the following equation: 2x<3y+2z wherein x=moles of calcium, y=moles of citric and z=moles of malic acid.

For the purposes of the present invention, the level of the acid component (hereafter total acids) depends on the beverage composition involved, the level of calcium included (as previously discussed), as well as the mouthfeel, taste and stability properties desired.

For the beverage concentrates of the present invention, the level of total acids can range from about 0.7% to about 8.25%, and preferably from about 1% to about 6%. The most preferred level of total acids is from about 3% to about 4%.

Acidic Anion Component: Chloride, Nitrate and Sulfate

An important component for the beverage concentrates of the present invention is the level of acidic anions present, specifically chloride ion, nitrate ion and sulfate ion. The beverage concentrates of the present invention can comprise from about 0.05% to about 1.2% chloride anion, nitrate anion, sulfate anion and mixtures thereof. Preferably, the level of chloride anion, nitrate anion, sulfate anion and mixtures thereof is in the range of from about 0.15% to about 1.0%. More preferably, the level is from about 0.2% to about 0.5%. These ranges are based on the weight of the anion and not on the salt. That is, the weight of the cation is ignored.

The chloride, nitrate and sulfate anions are preferably obtained from their corresponding acid forms, i.e., hydrochloric acid and nitric acid, or from their corresponding calcium salts such as calcium nitrate, calcium sulfate or calcium chloride.

Separately, calcium salts soluble in acidic media and which form strong acids (pKa<3.1) in solution can be used in combination with hydrochloric acid or nitric acid. These calcium salts include calcium phosphate tribasic, calcium pyrophosphate and calcium tartrate and can provide from 1% to 25% of the solubilized calcium (i.e., at levels of 0.002% to 0.24% calcium by weight). The free acid forms of these salts, i.e., orthophosphoric, pyrophosphoric, or tartaric acids can also be used in combination with hydrochloric acid, nitric acid, calcium chloride or calcium nitrate to lower the pH of the concentrate and allow more calcium to be dissolved (from about 0.2% to about 1.20%). Other cations such as sodium, potassium, magnesium, zinc can be used herein.

It should be noted that chloride anion has been found to be corrosive to stainless steel processing equipment. For this reason, mixtures of chloride anion with other suitable anions, such as nitrate and sulfate, are preferred. Due to the poor solubility of sulfate, mixtures of sulfate anions with other suitable anions is required.

Preferably, the chloride anion is derived from calcium chloride, which can provide from about 1% to about 25% solubilized calcium. More preferably, calcium chloride provides from about 10% to about 20% solubilized calcium. Calcium chloride, calcium nitrate and calcium sulfate combined can supply from about 1% to about 25% of the solubilized calcium for concentrates. Preferably, calcium chloride, calcium nitrate and calcium sulfate combined supply from about 10% to about 20% of the solubilized calcium present in concentrates. Preferably, the remaining calcium, in the range of 80% to 90%, comes from calcium carbonate or calcium hydroxide. These sources have the advantage of being neutralized by the acids and thus contribute no anion off-flavor.

The use of chloride, nitrate and sulfate anions in the beverage concentrates of the present invention contributes to the stability at high temperatures when using high levels of solubilized calcium, i.e., milk level. This is especially true when they are used in combinations with a high fructose corn syrup.

It also has been discovered that greater than 5-fold beverage concentrates are stable from calcium precipitation at temperatures of greater than 90° F. (32° C.) for at least about thirty (30) days while providing consumer acceptable taste and mouthfeel, when fructose is the sweetener. Preferably liquid fructose is used. Such concentrates comprise:

(1) from about 0.2% to about 1.2%, preferably from about 0.4% to about 1.0%, solubilized calcium;

(2) from about 0.7% to about 8.25% of an acid component comprising a mixture of citric acid and malic acid wherein said mixture has a weight ratio of citric acid to malic acid of from about 20:80 to about 26:74, preferably at about 26:74;

(3) an effective amount of a flavor component;

(4) at least about 40% sugar comprising about 40% to about 95%, by weight of the concentrate, fructose; and

(5) from about 5% to about 60% water.

Preferably, the level of fructose ranges from about 45% to about 85%, more preferably from about 50% to about 65%. More preferably, the fructose source is in the form of fructose syrup, liquid fructose, dry fructose, high fructose corn syrup comprising at least 50% fructose solids, preferably about 55% fructose solids. A most preferred fructose source is liquid fructose available from A. E. Staley Manufacturing, Decatur, Ill. Although, these beverage concentrates provide for good stability at greater than 90° F. (32° C.), without the use of the acid anions, e.g., chloride, the level of solubilized calcium is reduced and typically, only half of milk level calcium can be achieved.

Flavor Component

The particular amount of the flavor component effective for imparting flavor characteristics to the beverage concentrates can depend upon the flavor(s) selected, the flavor impression desired and the form of the flavor component. The flavor component of the present invention is preferably selected from the group consisting of fruit flavors, botanical flavors, fruit juices, botanical juices and mixtures thereof. The flavor component usually comprises from about 0.001% to about 70% of the beverage concentrates of the present invention. When single strength fruit juice is the flavorant, the flavorant is from about 1% to about 70%, preferably from about 5% to about 30%, of the beverage concentrate. The water in the single strength fruit juice is to be included in the water of the beverage concentrate. Juices also provide sugars (about 10% for single strength juices to about 80% for fruit concentrates). These sugars are accounted for in the sugar level. The amount of juice used as the flavorant depends on its concentration and is easily determined by one skilled in the art.

The term "fruit flavors" refers to those flavors derived from the edible reproductive part of a seed plant, especially one having a sweet pulp associated with the seed. Also included within the term "fruit flavor" are synthetically prepared flavors made to simulate fruit flavors derived from natural sources. Particularly preferred fruit flavors are the citrus flavors including orange flavors, lemon flavors, lime flavors and grapefruit flavors. Besides citrus flavors, a variety of other fruit flavors can be used such as apple flavors, grape flavors, cherry flavors, pineapple flavors and the like. These fruit flavors can be derived from natural sources such as fruit juices and flavor oils, or else synthetically prepared.

The term "botanical flavor(s)" refers to flavors derived from parts of a plant other than the fruit; i.e., derived from bean, nuts, bark, roots and leaves. Also included within the term "botanical flavor" are synthetically prepared flavors made to simulate botanical flavors derived from natural sources. Examples of such flavors include cocoa, chocolate, vanilla, coffee, cola, tea and the like. Botanical flavors can be derived from natural sources such as essential oils and extracts, or can be synthetically prepared.

The term "fruit juice(s)" refers to citrus juices, noncitrus juices such as apple juice, grape juice, pear juice, nectarine juice, currant juice, raspberry juice, gooseberry juice, blackberry juice, blueberry juice, strawberry juice, custard-apple juice, cocoa juice, pomegranate juice, guava juice, kiwi juice, mango juice, papaya juice, watermelon juice, cantaloupe juice, cherry juice, cranberry juice, pineapple juice, peach juice, apricot juice, plum juice, prune juice, passion fruit juice, tamarindo juice, banana juice and mixtures of these juices. Preferred fruit juices are the citrus juices. The term "citrus juices" refers to fruit juices selected from orange juice, lemon juice, lime juice, grapefruit juice, tangerine juice and mixtures. The most preferred fruit juices for use are apple juice, pear juice, grape juice, passion fruit juice, peach juice, apricot juice, papaya juice, and mixtures thereof.

In addition to fruit juices any botanical juice may be used as all or part of the flavor component of the present invention. The term "botanical juice(s)" refers to juices derived from parts of a plant other than the fruit, e.g., derived from stems, beans, nuts, bark, roots and leaves. Botanical juices particularly suitable for making the beverage concentrates of the present invention include tomato juice, lettuce juice, celery juice, spinach juice, cabbage juice, watercress juice, dandelion juice, rhubarb juice, carrot juice, beet juice and cucumber juice.

For use in the flavor component of the present invention, the fruit and botanical juices are typically and preferably concentrated by conventional means. Fruit juices are typically concentrated from about 20° Brix to about 80° Brix.

The juices can be concentrated by evaporation. Conventional evaporators of the ascending or descending film type, evaporators combining the ascending and descending film feature, multiple tube evaporators, plate type evaporators, expanding flow evaporators and centrifuged evaporators can be used and are preferred.

Other means of concentrating juice can be used. These would include reverse osmosis, sublimation concentration, freeze drying or freeze concentration. Economically, however, it is preferred to use an evaporation technique.

Sugar

The term "sugar" includes all carbohydrates or sugars, for example, mono and disaccharides, such as glucose, sucrose, maltose and fructose, sugar alcohols, low molecular weight dextrins and related carbohydrates. "Sugar" also includes liquid fructose, high fructose corn syrup solids, invert sugar, maltose syrup, corn syrup and sugar alcohols, including sorbitol and mixtures thereof. Artificial or high intensity sweeteners are not encompassed by the term sugar, but they may be present in the composition as a means of enhancing the beverage taste or flavor.

The level of sugar on a dry weight basis used in the present invention ranges from about 35% to about 80%, preferably from about 40% to about 75%, and most preferably from about 45% to about 70%. Preferred sugars for use in the present invention are fructose, glucose, maltose, sucrose, invert sugar and mixtures thereof. Generally, fructose is used in the from of liquid fructose, high fructose corn syrup, dry fructose or fructose syrup. Preferably, the high fructose corn syrup (on a solids basis) comprises at least about 50% fructose and more preferably greater than 55% fructose (on a solids basis). Preferred fructose sources are high fructose corn syrups containing 55% fructose solids and liquid fructose (99% fructose solids) both of which are available from A. E. Staley Manufacturing, Decatur, Ill.

Typically, the sugar for use in the present compositions is a monosaccharide or a disaccharide. These include sucrose, fructose, dextrose, maltose and lactose, but other carbohydrates can be used if less sweetness is desired. Mixtures of sugars can be used also.

Preferred sugars for use are sucrose and fructose. It should be noted that sugars, especially high fructose corn syrup, have been found to enhance the absorbability/bioavailability of calcium from beverages made from the beverage concentrates of the present invention.

Other natural or artificial sweeteners can be used. Artificial sweeteners include saccharin, cyclamates, acetosulfam, L-aspartyl-L-phenylalanine lower alkyl ester sweeteners (e.g., aspartame), L-aspartyl-D-alanine amides disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,411,925 to Brennan et al., issued Oct. 23, 1983, L-aspartyl-D-serine amides disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,399,163 at Brennan et al., issued Aug. 16, 1983, L-aspartyl-L-1-hydroxymethyl-alkaneamide sweeteners disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,338,346 to Brand, issued Dec. 21, 1982, L-aspartyl-1-hydroxyethyl-alkaneamide sweeteners disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,423,029 to Rizzi, issued Dec. 27, 1983, L-aspartyl-D-phenylglycine ester and amide sweeteners disclosed in European Patent Application 168,112 to J. M. Janusz, published Jan. 15, 1986, and the like.

Because of the acidity of the beverage concentrate systems of the present invention and due to temperatures above about 90° F. (32° C.), L-aspartyl-L-phenylalanine lower alkyl ester sweeteners, such as aspartame, may degrade and therefore are not preferred for use in the present compositions.

The amount of the sweetener effective in the beverage concentrates and food compositions of the present invention depends upon the particular sweetener used and the sweetness intensity desired. For mixtures of noncaloric sweeteners and sugars, the amount of non-caloric sweetener varies depending upon the sweetness intensity of the particular sweetener (from about 0.5% to 2%). In determining the amount (dry weight basis) of sugar, any sugar or other sweetener present in the flavor component, typically from the use of juices, is also included. Low-calorie sweetener combinations containing a noncaloric sweetener such as aspartame and a sugar, such as corn syrup solids, or sugar alcohols can also be used in beverage mixes, however, they are not preferred due to the stability problems of the artificial sweeteners at the pH of the concentrates.

Concentration

The beverage concentrates of the present invention are greater than 5-fold beverage concentrates. Typically, the concentration is greater than 5.1 fold and preferably greater than 5.5 fold. Most preferably, the concentration is about 5.75 or greater. Generally, the concentration will range from about 5.5-fold to about 10-fold.

At these high concentrations, the amount of water present will range from about 20% to about 65%, preferably from about 25% to about 60%. More preferably, the water present is in the range of from about 30% to about 55% of the beverage concentrates.

Water includes all the water in the flavor, sugar and other liquid components.

pH

The beverage concentrates have a pH of less than or equal to about 4.5. Preferably, the pH is less than or equal to about 3.5 and more preferably less than or equal to about 3.3. Typically, the pH for the beverage concentrates will range from about 2.5 to about 4.5.

Optional Ingredients

Both the amount of water and the pH provide microbial and fungal stability to the product, due to the low water activity. The beverage concentrates of the present invention may comprise any other ingredient or ingredients typically used as optional ingredients. Other minor beverage ingredients are frequently included. Such ingredients include preservatives such as benzoic acid and salts thereof, sulphur dioxide, etc. Also, typically included are colors derived either from natural sources or synthetically prepared. See L. F. Green, Developments in Soft Drinks Technology, Vol. 1 (Applied Science Publishers Ltd. 1978), pp. 185-186 (herein incorporated by reference) for preservatives and colors used in beverages.

Gums, emulsifiers and oils can be included to change the texture and opacity of the beverage. Typical ingredients include guar gum, xanthan, alginates, mono and diglycerides, lecithin, pectin, pulp, cottonseed oil, vegetable oil and weighing oils. Esters and other flavor and essence oils can also be used.

Uses

The present beverage concentrates can, in addition to making single strength carbonated and non-carbonated beverages, be used as a sweetener and/or flavorant in food compositions.

Food compositions of the present invention can contain from about 1% to about 99% of the beverage concentrates. Preferred embodiments of these food compositions include baked goods, fruit drinks/mixes, frozen foods, candies, carbonated beverages, milk drinks/mixes, gelatins, puddings, fillings, breakfast cereals, breakfast bars, sauces, jams, jellies, whipped toppings, tablets, syrups, orally administered medicines, spreads, chewing gums and chocolates. The most preferred food compositions are confectionary products such as candy bars and gums.

The beverage concentrates of the present invention can be substituted for all or part of the sugars in a food composition. Just as adjustments are made in recipes and formulations for the different properties of sucrose and fructose or dextrose, adjustments for the different properties of these sugar derivatives must be made. These changes are within the skill of one in the art.

The following is by way of example a partial list of food compositions which can be made with these sugar derivatives: cakes, cookies, brownies, other sweet snacks, icings, frostings, pie fillings, puddings, creams, hard and soft candies, chocolates, crackers, snacks made from potatoes, corn, wheat and other grains, sauces, gravies, yogurt, ice cream, jellies, jams, breadings, breads, rolls, muffins, doughnuts and sweet rolls.

Method of Preparation

In order to achieve the stability of the concentrates, the materials must be added in a particular sequence. The sugars and calcium salts are solubilized and they compete for the water to remain in solution. To make a concentrated solution which is free from solids, all solids have to be dissolved in water either as a premix or during the addition step.

Several premixes or solutions are formed. First the sugars are dissolved in water. For convenience, liquid sugars or syrups are used. A preferred sugar source is liquid fructose, invert syrup and high fructose corn syrup. Generally these syrups have about 50% to 99% sugar solids.

The citric and malic acids are also dissolved in water. The preservatives and optional ingredients, i.e. thickeners, gums, alginates, pectins, emulsifiers form a third solution.

The calcium source is prepared as a slurry. The calcium chloride, nitrate, sulfate, phosphates are first dissolved in water. The remaining calcium is then added to make a slurry. Preferably, this remaining calcium is calcium hydroxide, calcium oxide or calcium carbonate. The calcium hydroxide and calcium carbonate react with the organic acids so the calcium is solubilized in the processing step. While not wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that a metastable calcium citrate malate complex is formed which remains in solution in the concentrate. When processed in the manner described herein, the calcium is more soluble than the corresponding salts, i.e. calcium citrate and calcium malate.

The flavor component is a separate mix. If the flavor component contains citric or malic acids, as for example, a fruit juice or fruit juice concentrate would, the ratio of the citric to malic acid must be adjusted to be the same as in the citric and malic acid premix. Additional citric or malic acid is added if necessary to achieve this ratio. Otherwise, calcium citrate or calcium malate can form during the processing step and precipitate. Once precipitated, it is difficult to redissolve in the limited water available.

The mixing sequence is as follows:

The sugars and the acid solution are mixed with agitation to make a uniform mixture. The addition sequence is not critical. The acids can be dissolved in the mix tank with water and the sugar pumped in, or the sugar solution can be put into the tank and the acid solution pumped in.

To this mixture is added the calcium slurry. The addition is controlled so that the reaction mixture does not become too hot. The temperature should not exceed 120° F. (490° C.) The calcium is neutralized by the citric and malic acids during this addition. The temperature rises due to the heat of neutralization. When calcium carbonate is used, the neutralization produces carbon dioxide which can cause foaming. This can be controlled by the rate of addition of the calcium.

The flavor is then added to the calcium, citric and malic acid sugar mixture. Any preservatives, gums, emulsifiers, vitamins, minerals vegetable oils, weighting oils, or other optional ingredients are added at this stage. These materials are added as a water solution or as liquids.

The concentrate is shelf-stable due to its low water activity. However, it can be pasteurized with a short time, high temperature treatment or otherwise sterilized as is conventional for products of this type.

Basically, this is a process for preparing a shelf-stable calcium fortified beverage concentrate, comprising:

(1) preparing a mixture of a sugar solution and citric and malic acid in water;

(2) adding a slurry of calcium salts in water, wherein any calcium citrate, calcium malate and inorganic calcium salt is first dissolved in water and then other calcium salts are added to make the slurry, said slurry being added with agitation and wherein the temperature is maintained below 120° F.; (490° C.)

(3) adding to the mixture of (2) the flavors dissolved in water, wherein the citric and malic acid present in the flavor is in the same ratio as the acids in (1); and

(4) adding to the mixture of (3) any preservatives and optional ingredients in water.

The preferred method of preparation for the beverage concentrates of the present invention is as follows:

A beverage base (concentrated 50-fold to 200-fold) is first prepared by first making a flavor concentrate. Fruit concentrates and purees are blended together in the appropriate amounts to result in the desired finished beverage flavor and strength. They are mixed well and analyzed for citric and malic acid content in order to provide for the desired finished beverage acidity. Other natural and artificial flavor components may also be added. Minor ingredients (including antifoam, pectin, preservatives, colorants and opacifiers) are added, and the final acidity of the base is adjusted to provide a target pH. The base may be homogenized to provide a stable emulsion for shipment and storage.

A separate mixture of sugar and the organic acids and calcium is made.

Liquid sweetener (60 to 77% solids) is added to the mix tank. A separate premix of citric and malic acids dissolved in water is prepared, and then blended into the sweetener. A second premix of the calcium salts, dissolved or slurried in water, is prepared and then introduced into the mix tank with the organic acids and sweeteners good agitation. The calcium salts, preferably calcium hydroxide or calcium carbonate, react with the acids in the presence of the sugar solids to form a stable calcium-citrate-malate complex, at the same time evolving heat of neutralization and carbon dioxide if calcium carbonate is used. After the mixture becomes transparent with no solid particles observed, the concentrated flavor base, flavor component, is added. Finally, any preservative and any other fortification (Vitamin C) are added. Additional vitamins and minerals can also be added.

The concentrate can be analyzed for solids content and acidity and other dissolved solids. The solids content is the amount of sugar present. If necessary additional sugar can be added. The pH is adjusted by adding the acidic anion. The concentrate can be either pasteurized and hot packed or chilled and cold packed for storage and distribution to customers.

Finally, the customer dilutes the syrup with water to the desired finished beverage strength.

While the following description is with reference to sugar containing beverages, beverages containing some noncaloric sweeteners can also be prepared by appropriate modification. See L. F. Green, Developments in Soft Drinks Technology, Vol. 1, (Applied Science Publishers Ltd. 1978), pp. 102-107 (herein incorporated by reference), for a further description of beverage making, in particular the process for carbonation. The amount of carbon dioxide added to a beverage concentrate depends upon the particular flavor system used and the amount of carbonation desired. Usually, carbonated beverages made from the present invention contain from 1.0 to 4.5 volumes of carbon dioxide. Preferred carbonated beverages contain from 2 to 3.5 volumes of carbon dioxide.

EXAMPLES

The following are specific embodiments of beverage concentrates and methods for making them. These examples are illustrative of the invention and are not intended to be limiting of it.

EXAMPLE I

A 5.75 fold (5.75 X) beverage concentrate of the present invention, being stable at 120° F. (49° C.) for at least about 7 days and at greater than 90° F. (32° C.) for 30 days, is prepared as follows:

    ______________________________________                                                              Amount                                                    Ingredient           (g)                                                       ______________________________________                                         Premix A                                                                       Water                5.23                                                      Calcium chloride     0.43                                                      Calcium hydroxide    0.87                                                      Premix B                                                                       Water                1.00                                                      Sodium benzoate      0.13                                                      Fruit Premix                                                                   Base premix - Flavorant, color                                                                      11.36                                                     (contains 0.013 g citric acid                                                  and 0.115 g malic acid from                                                    fruit)                                                                         Citric acid          0.50                                                      Malic acid           1.32                                                      Final Mix                                                                      Water                5.47                                                      Citric acid          0.39                                                      Malic acid           1.08                                                      Liquid Fructose.sup.1                                                                               72.00                                                     Premix A             6.53                                                      Fruit Premix         13.18                                                     Premix B             1.13                                                      Ascorbic acid        0.22                                                      Total                100.00                                                    ______________________________________                                          .sup.1 Liquid Fructose is 77% solids, 23% water, 99.5% of the solids are       fructose. It is supplied by A. E. Staley Manufacturing Co., Decatur, IL. 

The citric acid to malic acid ratio in the fruit premix and in the final mix is 0.36. The solubilized calcium level is about 0.6 gm.

The fruit premix is prepared by making a flavor concentrate by blending fruit concentrates and purees. It is homogenized with the acids to provide a stable emulsion for shipment and storage.

Liquid fructose (77% solids) is added to the mix tank. A separate premix of citric and malic acids dissolved in water is prepared, and then blended into the fructose. Premix A is prepared by first dissolving calcium chloride in water and then adding the calcium hydroxide. The slurry is added to the acid and fructose mixture with good agitation. The rate of addition is controlled so that the temperature does not rise more than about 10 degrees F. After the mixture becomes transparent with no solid particles observed, the concentrated fruit premix is added. Finally, the sodium benzoate is added and then the ascorbic acid.

EXAMPLE II

A 10-fold beverage concentrate is prepared in a manner similar to Example I. It is stable at greater than 90° F. (32° C.) for at least 30 days.

    ______________________________________                                         Ingredient          Weight %                                                   ______________________________________                                         Liquid Fructose.sup.1                                                                              49.00                                                      Citric Acid, Anhyd. .07                                                        Sodium Benzoate     .13                                                        Ascorbic Acid       .41                                                        Water               28.38                                                      Malic Acid          .19                                                        Calcium Hydroxide   .54                                                        CaCl.sub.2 *2H.sub.2 O                                                                             .26                                                        Flavorant, Color and Misc.                                                                         21.02                                                                          100.00                                                     ______________________________________                                          .sup.1 Liquid fructose as in Example I.                                  

EXAMPLE III

A 6-fold beverage concentrate, stable at greater than 90° F. (32° C.) for at least 30 days, is prepared in a manner similar to Example I.

    ______________________________________                                         Ingredient         Weight %                                                    ______________________________________                                         Liquid Fructose    74.80                                                       Citric Acid, Anhyd.                                                                               .62                                                         Sodium benzoate    .13                                                         Ascorbic Acid      .23                                                         Water              9.41                                                        Malic Acid         1.77                                                        Calcium Hydroxide  .90                                                         CaCl.sub.2 *2H.sub.2 O                                                                            .44                                                         Flavorant, Color & Misc.                                                                          11.70                                                                          100.00                                                      ______________________________________                                    

EXAMPLE IV

A 6.45-fold beverage concentrate, stable at greater than 90° F. (32° C.) for at least 30 days, is prepared as in a manner similar to Example I.

    ______________________________________                                         Ingredient         Weight %                                                    ______________________________________                                         Liquid Fructose    78.80                                                       Citric Acid, Anhyd.                                                                               .64                                                         Sodium benzoate    .13                                                         Ascorbic Acid      .24                                                         Water              4.56                                                        Malic Acid         1.83                                                        Calcium Hydroxide  .95                                                         CaCl.sub.2 *2H.sub.2 O                                                                            .47                                                         Flavorant, Color & Misc.                                                                          12.38                                                                          100.00                                                      ______________________________________                                    

Example IV contains about 0.6% solubilized calcium and about 0.2% chloride anion.

EXAMPLE V

A 5.75-fold beverage concentrate, stable at 90° F. (32° C.) for at least 30 days and at 120° F. (49° C.) for at least 7 days, is prepared in a manner similar to Example I.

    ______________________________________                                         Ingredient         Weight %                                                    ______________________________________                                         Liquid Fructose    72.00                                                       Citric Acid, Anhyd.                                                                               .59                                                         Sodium benzoate    .13                                                         Ascorbic Acid      .22                                                         Water              12.75                                                       Malic Acid         1.67                                                        Calcium Hydroxide  .87                                                         CaCl.sub.2 *2H.sub.2 O                                                                            .43                                                         Flavorant, Color & Misc.                                                                          11.34                                                                          100.00                                                      ______________________________________                                    

Example V contains about 0.6% solubilized calcium and about 0.2% chloride anion.

EXAMPLE VI

A 5.75-fold beverage concentrate, stable at 90° F. (32° C.) for at least 30 days and at 120° F. (49° C.) for at least 7 days, is prepared in a manner similar to Example I.

    ______________________________________                                         Ingredient         Weight %                                                    ______________________________________                                         Liquid Fructose    72.00                                                       Citric Acid, Anhyd.                                                                               .70                                                         Sodium benzoate    .13                                                         Ascorbic Acid      .22                                                         Water              12.52                                                       Malic Acid         2.00                                                        Calcium Hydroxide  1.09                                                        Flavorant, Color & Misc.                                                                          11.34                                                                          100.00                                                      ______________________________________                                    

Example VI contains about 0.6% solubilized calcium.

EXAMPLE VII

A 5.75-fold beverage concentrate, stable at greater than 90° F. (32° C.) for at least 30 days and at 120° F. (49° C.) for at least 7 days, is prepared in a manner similar to Example I.

    ______________________________________                                         Ingredient         Weight %                                                    ______________________________________                                         HFCS-55 (77%)      69.00                                                       Citric Acid, Anhyd.                                                                               .40                                                         Sodium benzoate    .13                                                         Ascorbic Acid      .23                                                         Water              16.19                                                       Malic Acid         1.96                                                        Calcium Hydroxide  .52                                                         CaCl.sub.2 *2H.sub.2 O                                                                            .00                                                         Flavorant, Color & Misc.                                                                          11.57                                                                          100.00                                                      ______________________________________                                    

Example VII contains about 0.3% solubilized calcium. High fructose corn syrup-55 is a 77% solids and 23% water solution available from A. E. Staley; 55% of the solids are fructose.

These beverage concentrates in addition to their requisite stability from calcium precipitation provide for a consumer acceptable beverage with good taste and mouthfeel. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A process for preparing a shelf-stable calcium fortified beverage concentrate, comprising the following steps in the following order:(1) preparing a mixture of a sugar solution and citric and malic acid in water; (2) adding to the mixture of (1) a slurry of calcium salts in water, wherein any calcium citrate, calcium malate and inorganic calcium salt is first dissolved in water and then other calcium salts are added to make the slurry, said slurry being added with agitation and wherein the temperature is maintained below 120° F. (49° C.); (3) adding to the mixture of (2) the flavors dissolved in water, wherein the citric and malic acid present in the flavor is the same ratio as the acids in (1); and (4) adding to the mixture of (3) any preservatives and additional ingredients in water, wherein said concentrates are stable from calcium precipitation at temperatures of greater than 90° F. (32° C.) for at least about 30 days.
 2. A process according to claim 1 wherein said citric to malic acid ratio is from 5:95 to 50:50.
 3. A process according to claim 2 wherein said citric to malic acid ratio is from 20:80 to 26:74.
 4. A process according to claim 2 wherein said sugar is selected from the group consisting of sucrose, fructose, glucose, high fructose corn syrup, liquid fructose, invert syrup and mixtures thereof.
 5. A process according to claim 4 wherein said calcium salt is selected from the group consisting of calcium carbonate, calcium hydroxide, calcium chloride, calcium nitrate, calcium sulfate and mixtures thereof.
 6. A process according to claim 5 wherein said calcium comprises from about 10% to 20% calcium chloride and from 80% to 90% calcium hydroxide.
 7. A process according to claim 2 wherein said calcium comprises from about 10% to 20% calcium chloride and from 80% to 90% calcium carbonate.
 8. A process according to claim 7 wherein said flavor comprises fruit juice concentrate.
 9. A process according to claim 8 wherein said optional ingredients are selected from the group consisting of gums, emulsifiers, sodium benzoate, perservatives, pectin, vitamins, cottonseed oil, vegetable oils and mixtures thereof.
 10. A process according to claim 9 wherein said optional ingredients are sodium benzoate, vitamin C, pectin, and cottonseed oil. 